Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are frequently prescribed and are better tolerated than older antidepressants, side effects such as sexual dysfunction limit patient acceptance of these medications. DSM-IV-TR categorizes medication-induced sexual dysfunction as a type of substance-induced sexual dysfunction. These dysfunctions are characterized by impairment of various sexual response phases.

Estimating the true incidence and prevalence of SSRI-related sexual dysfunction can be difficult. Zimmerman et al compared psychiatrists’ clinical assessments of depressed patients receiving ongoing treatment with results of a standardized side effects questionnaire and found that even though psychiatrists regularly inquired about sexual side effects, on the questionnaire patients reported higher rates of almost all sexual dysfunctions. The incidence of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction also can be difficult to ascertain because some sexual dysfunctions frequently accompany a primary psychiatric disorder or physical illness. Balon suggested that the incidence of SSRI-associated sexual dysfunction is 30% to 50%, although others have reported higher incidences.

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